Introduction
Have you recently received a Universal Credit decision that you believe is incorrect? Don’t worry—this simple guide will help you understand how to challenge it effectively. From requesting a mandatory reconsideration to taking your case to an independent tribunal, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take. If you find yourself feeling confused or overwhelmed, Contend is here to help. Our highly trained AI legal experts provide guidance and support, ensuring you understand your rights and can resolve your legal issues with ease. Discover the easiest legal help in the UK with Contend.
If you’ve recently received a decision on your Universal Credit claim that you don’t agree with, don’t worry—you have options. You can ask the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to review their decision through a process called “mandatory reconsideration.” This means the DWP will take another look at your case.
It’s important to act quickly. You have one month from the date of the decision to request a mandatory reconsideration. This process also applies if you disagree with a decision regarding support for mortgage interest (SMI), which is a loan to help pay the interest on your mortgage when you receive Universal Credit.
How to Request a Mandatory Reconsideration
When you’re ready to ask for a mandatory reconsideration, you’ll need to provide some key information:
- The date of the decision you disagree with
- Your reasons for disagreeing
- Your name, address, and National Insurance number
You have several ways to submit your request:
- Online Message: If you have an online Universal Credit account, you can send a message through your account.
- CRMR1 Form: You can fill out a CRMR1 mandatory reconsideration request form and send it to the address found on your decision letter.
- Written Letter: Write a letter detailing your request and send it to the address specified in your decision letter.
- Phone Call: If you’re nearing the deadline, you can call the number on your decision letter. However, make sure to follow up with a written request afterwards.
Writing a Letter
If you choose to write a letter, make sure you send it to the correct address. This can vary depending on where you live, so check your decision letter for the right address. If you can’t find your decision letter, you can contact the DWP for assistance.
You can reach the DWP through their Universal Credit helpline:
- Phone: 0800 328 5644
- Welsh Language: 0800 328 1744
- Textphone: 0800 328 1344
- Relay UK: If you have difficulty speaking or hearing, you can use Relay UK by typing 18001 followed by the helpline number.
Calls to the helpline are free from both mobiles and landlines, and they are available Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm.
What If You Missed the One-Month Deadline?
If you didn’t request a mandatory reconsideration within the one-month timeframe, you can still ask for one, but it must be within 13 months of the decision. You’ll need to provide a valid reason for the delay—such as illness or personal circumstances—and explain why you believe the decision is wrong and why it’s important for it to be changed.
You can submit your request through your online account or by calling the Universal Credit helpline. Just remember to follow up with a written explanation.
What If You Still Disagree?
If, after the mandatory reconsideration, you still disagree with the DWP’s decision, you can take your case to an independent tribunal. This tribunal will assess your arguments and make a decision, and it operates separately from the DWP.
Challenging a decision can feel overwhelming, but knowing your rights and the steps to take can help you navigate the process. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to the DWP or try Contend’s legal expert chat for guidance. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to help you understand and resolve your legal problems. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
For more info, check out some of our related articles:
- Appeal Universal Credit Decision in UK: Step-by-Step Guide
- UK Benefit Appeal Guide: Win Mandatory Reconsideration
- UK Benefit Appeal Guide: Steps for Mandatory Reconsideration & Tribunal
- What to Do If Your Universal Credit Claim Is Closed Unexpectedly
- Appeal Your PIP Decision: Expert Guide to Mandatory Reconsideration
